While a week still remains before the official start of free agency, the Seattle Seahawks have found a way to stay busy as of late.
On Friday, the team added a third piece to the 2008 puzzle by keeping free-agent-to-be Sean Locklear off the open market. Locklear and the Seahawks reportedly have come to terms on a long-term contract, although the paperwork had not officially been filed as of late Friday afternoon.
According to several reports, the 26-year-old starting right tackle will sign a five-year deal with the Seahawks, who have already locked up two other players in the past nine days. Seattle signed veteran guard Mike Wahle on Feb. 14 and used its franchise tag on Pro Bowl cornerback Marcus Trufant earlier this week.
The next order of business could be kicker Josh Brown, who appears headed toward free agency. Brown was the team’s franchise player last season but has yet to sign a long-term deal with the team.
The other free agents include wide receiver D.J. Hackett, tight end Marcus Pollard and defensive tackle Chartric Darby.
The signing of Locklear means the Seahawks can address other positions in free agency and the April draft. Tight end, running back and offensive line appear to be the greatest areas of need.
Locklear has started 42 games at right tackle over the past three seasons, including all 16 in 2007. He could be groomed to eventually replace 34-year-old Walter Jones at left tackle, but for now Locklear is staying on the right side.
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